Moving house can be a very stressful time for many. With the busy lives we lead, a move can be a cause of considerable agitation. Below are a few guidelines to help you to be more organised for the move and minimise the stress of moving.
Choose your move day
If you have the option, try to book outside the peak moving period around the end/beginning of the month. The rates are lower during off-peak times. Find a reputable mover like Two Men and a Truck and try to book as far in advance as possible. One month before move day is usually enough.
Create a To-do list
There is always so much to think of and do during this stressful time and it will be difficult to remember everything. Write it all down and create a plan. Put on a calendar when you need to do what and try to stick to it so that you do not become overwhelmed as move day looms closer.
De clutter
You will come to realise that you are probably a bit of a hoarder – the jeans you have been keeping until you are slim enough for them, the coffee machine that you keep meaning to get repaired but probably never will. The list goes on. The fewer things to pack/unpack the less stressful your moving will be.
Donate where you can – it will also make you feel good.
Put aside things you wish to sell ahead of time.
Possibly get assistance in clearing out junk from a company specialised at this.
Get things you are going to need
This includes boxes, packing tape, scissors, screw drivers, marking pen, packing paper such as old newspapers or bubble wrap, and ziploc bags for the last minute things found lying around.
Boxes
If you are packing your own boxes, get boxes from bottle stores or supermarkets long before you need them. Make sure they are taped up on the bottom/sides to strengthen them. Rather use packing tape than duct tape. Don't use very large boxes unless light items are going into them. Boxes about the size of a microwave are ideal.
Label boxes
To make it easier for placing the boxes in the various rooms upon arrival in your new home, mark them, eg “Master Bedroom – clothes”, “Lounge – ornaments” and so on. It will also help you prioritise what needs to be unpacked first.
You may want to be really efficient and write lists of what is in each box and number the boxes. Keep the list safe and accessible.
Decor Items
Pack these first, the walls and shelves may look a little bare but you don't need these things for everyday living. It will also give a sense of “you have achieved a portion of the move”.
Fragile items
Not only wrap items in bubble wrap or packing paper but also in between and inside such items as drinking glasses. You can never use too much wrapping. For plates, wrap them and place vertically in the boxes. Then put additional packing paper in the empty spaces of the box.
Electrical items
If you have the original boxes they came in, use those. Take pictures of the positioning of cord/plug configuration – it will be way easier to reassemble at the other end.
Use of laundry bins
You can pack these with such items as towels, sheets, linen, and some clothing. Remember not to make them too heavy.
Defrosting Fridges & Freezers
Defrost and clean your fridge/freezer at least one day before the move. After the move it’s best to wait 24 hours for the gas to settle before plugging it in.
Essentials at the other End
Make sure you know where essentials such as toilet paper, soap, towels, toothbrushes, tea/ coffee etc. are for use when you arrive at your new home. You will feel less frazzled if you have these things on hand.
Pets
Make arrangements so that they will be safely out of the picture on the day of the move. You don't want them underfoot and possibly running away if doors are left open.
Being organised will make everyone involved more relaxed on the big day. Now Book Your Move, get planning and remember- you’ve got this!!